Roots/Lovers Rock charts

Review: With a career spanning over 50 years, Linval Thompson stands as one of the last living legends of Jamaican reggae. As a singer and producer on the renowned Thompson Sound label, Thompson has left an indelible mark on roots reggae with hits like 'I Love Marijuana,' 'Jah Jah The Conqueror,' and 'Don't Cut Off Your Dreadlocks.' He has also produced for major artists including Barrington Levy, Eek-A-Mouse, Johnny Osbourne, and Freddie McGregor. Known for his discretion and humility, despite owning one of the largest reggae catalogs in the world, Thompson is a cornerstone of the genre. His album, Ganja Man, features ten tracks and five dub versions. The album showcases his unmistakable voice and addresses current social issues, urging listeners to fight against corruption and embrace self-improvement. The title track, 'Ganja Man,' celebrates the plant he holds dear. The album features top reggae musicians such as Roots Radics, Jammys, Med Tone, The Ligerians, Irie Ites All Stars, Nambo Robinson, and Dean Fraser, with mixing by Roberto Sanchez and Irie Ites. Notably, singer and toaster Trinity features on the track 'Tune In.' If you don't know this man, get to know him by picking up this great album.

Review: Irie Ites Records delivers a compelling snapshot of reggae's enduring vitality, blending veteran voices with modern interpretations. Junior Dread's 'Leaders' opens with a commanding rhythm and poignant lyricism, while Eek-A-Mouse's 'Musical Ambassador' injects a playful yet inventive energy. Linval Thompson brings depth with 'What Time Is It?', its rootsy bassline evoking reggae's golden era, contrasted by Anthony B's 'Rub-A-Dub,' which brims with contemporary flair. The tracks stand strong individually yet flow cohesively, bridging reggae's rich history with its forward momentum.

Review: Reggae legend U Brown returns with a powerful new album, a testament to his enduring legacy and unwavering commitment to roots music. The offering showcases U Brown's inimitable voice and socially conscious lyrics, addressing contemporary issues with wisdom and conviction. Backed by a stellar cast of musicians, including the Roots Radics and Irie Ites All Stars, the album delivers a potent dose of classic reggae sounds, reminiscent of 70s roots albums. Guest appearances from reggae luminaries like Eek A Mouse, Cornell Campbell, and Frankie Paul add further depth and excitement to this already impressive collection. With its infectious rhythms, conscious lyrics, and masterful production, 'Still Chanting Rub A Dub' is a must-have for any fan of roots reggae and dub.

Review: The Irie Ites label, founded by the French production collective of the same name, has long been one of the international reggae scene's leading lights - an impression only strengthened by the Le Mans-based stable's latest annual compilation. Comprising a mixture of 2024 label highlights and previously unheard cuts, the set offers a range of quality conscious and roots cuts (as well as a few curveballs such as the reggae/hip-hop fusion of Anthony B hook-up 'Rub-A-Dub (Stop That Sound Riddim)') featuring such global stars as Eek-a-Mouse, Sly & Robbie, Linval Thompson, Solo Banton, Screwdriver and Frankie Paul. To top it all off, crew member Jericho d'Irie Ites serves up a quintet of quality dub versions to get soundsystems rattling and dancefloors shaking.